Permission to work on the highways - section 278 agreements

  1. Summary

    If you are planning to make changes to existing highways you need an agreement under section 278 of the highways act or a simple section 278 agreement.

    If you are building new roads and changing existing ones – including connecting new roads to an existing highway – you need a hybrid section 278/38 agreement.

    Our online form will work out which licence you need.

  2. Fees

    We will not process your application until you pay a non-refundable deposit:

    • Simple section 278 - £1,500
    • Section 278 - £3,000
    • Hybrid section 278/38 - £3,000

    We will contact you to inform you of any further charges.

  3. Application and guidance notes

  4. Legislation

    https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1980/66/contents

  5. Complaints

    To the Highways Department

  6. Contact us

    highways278@manchester.gov.uk

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